Background and Context:
Gideon, also known as Jerubbaal, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, chapters 6-8. He is called by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. The narrative of Gideon's victory over Zebah and Zalmunna, the Midianite kings, is a continuation of his divinely appointed mission to free Israel from its enemies and restore faithfulness to God.

Biblical Account:
The account of Gideon's defeat of Zebah and Zalmunna is found in Judges 8. After the miraculous victory over the Midianite army with just 300 men, Gideon pursues the fleeing kings, Zebah and Zalmunna. The pursuit is marked by Gideon's determination and reliance on God's guidance.

Judges 8:4-5 : "Then Gideon and his three hundred men came to the Jordan and crossed it, exhausted yet still in pursuit. So he said to the men of Succoth, 'Please give some loaves of bread to the troops who are following me, for they are exhausted, and I am pursuing Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian.'"

Despite the refusal of support from the towns of Succoth and Penuel, Gideon continues his pursuit. His resolve is fueled by a divine mandate and the promise of victory over Israel's oppressors.

Judges 8:10-12 : "Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor with their army of about fifteen thousand men—all that were left of the armies of the people of the East. A hundred and twenty thousand swordsmen had already fallen. Gideon went up by the route of the nomads east of Nobah and Jogbehah and attacked their camp unexpectedly. Zebah and Zalmunna fled, but he pursued them and captured these two kings of Midian, routing their entire army."

Gideon's strategic surprise attack demonstrates his leadership and tactical acumen, as well as the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver the Midianites into his hands.

Theological Significance:
The defeat of Zebah and Zalmunna underscores several key theological themes. First, it highlights God's sovereignty and faithfulness in delivering His people through unlikely means and individuals. Gideon's victory is not attributed to military might but to divine intervention and obedience to God's commands.

Second, the narrative illustrates the importance of faith and perseverance. Gideon's relentless pursuit, despite exhaustion and lack of support, serves as a testament to his faith in God's promise and his commitment to fulfilling his divine mission.

Lastly, the account reflects the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, as Israel's oppression by the Midianites was a result of turning away from God. Gideon's victory serves as a call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
The Midianites were a nomadic people, often associated with the desert regions east of the Jordan River. Their oppression of Israel involved raiding and plundering, which left the Israelites impoverished and in hiding. The defeat of Zebah and Zalmunna not only brought military victory but also restored peace and stability to the region.

Gideon's interaction with the towns of Succoth and Penuel reveals the internal divisions and lack of unity among the Israelite tribes during this period. His subsequent punishment of these towns for their refusal to aid him highlights the importance of solidarity and support within the covenant community.

Legacy:
Gideon's triumph over Zebah and Zalmunna solidified his role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. His actions brought forty years of peace to the land, as noted in Judges 8:28. However, the narrative also foreshadows the cyclical pattern of Israel's faithfulness and apostasy, as the people soon return to idolatry after Gideon's death.